March expedition-style adventure race fully booked

Team Tiki Tour members paddle with dolphins in Milford
Sound during the 2012 GodZone race. Photo by Alex Socci.

The expedition-style adventure race GodZone on March 8 is
fully booked.

Co-director Warren Bates said on Monday the response after
last year's inaugural event had been ''overwhelming'', with
some teams signing up almost immediately after race finish.

The Queenstown-based race attracted strong support from
athletes

nationwide. The appeal of racing in New Zealand's pristine
wilderness

was a big attraction for international competitors, with 40%
of participants overseas nationals. Thirty-five teams will
start on March 10, with no capacity for more because of the
number of available boats.

Bates said organisers were still receiving entry inquiries
and created a waiting list for teams, while individuals were
being encouraged to post their availability on social media.

''Our team list includes the full spectrum of abilities and
age groups with plenty looking for a chance to stand on the
podium,'' Bates said.

''We are particularly excited to see adventure racing legends
like Aaron Prince, Neil Jones, Jim Cotter and Petri Forsman
return to racing in New Zealand.''

The race was shaping up to be a highly competitive event with
a host of strong teams looking to unseat the reigning
champion, Team Seagate, of New Zealand.

''The 2011 World Champions, Thule Adventure Team, are already
training in the southern hemisphere and are preparing for a
big showdown with their major rivals, Seagate,'' Bates said.

''This will bring some spectacular racing at the front of the
field which of course will all play out on our live website
for everyone to follow.''

Swedish team AXA-adidas, Australian team Macpac and Brasilia
Multisport Team are also likely contenders for placings.

''Our race has some challenging New Zealand navigation and so
national racers like Jim Cotter, who heads a team which
includes Sia Svenson, who raced in the team that finished
second in last year's event, will have a good chance,'' Bates
said.